What Causes A Thumping Sound In My Car’s Front End?

What Should I Do If My Tire Has Bubbles?

When you get behind the wheel of your car, you expect a smooth and comfortable ride. However, if you notice your vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or strange handling, it might be time to check your wheel alignment. At CS Automotive , we specialize in keeping your vehicle running smoothly, and that includes providing top-notch wheel alignment services. In this blog, we’ll explain the wheel alignment process, why it’s important, and how it can benefit your vehicle. What Is Wheel Alignment? Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment ensures that all four wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road, which helps your car maintain a straight line while driving and reduces unnecessary wear on your tires. The alignment process involves adjusting the three primary angles of your wheels: camber , caster , and toe . These angles affect your car’s handling, safety, and tire longevity. Let's break down each angle and how they impact your driving experience. Camber: The Vertical Angle Camber refers to the angle at which the wheels tilt in relation to the vertical axis of the vehicle. When viewed from the front of the car, the camber determines whether the top of the tire tilts inward (negative camber) or outward (positive camber). Both conditions can lead to uneven tire wear and affect vehicle stability. Negative Camber : When the top of the tires tilts inward, negative camber is often used in sports cars to improve cornering performance. However, too much negative camber can cause excessive wear on the inside of the tires. Positive Camber : When the top of the tires tilts outward, positive camber is typically seen on older cars or vehicles designed for off-road use. Excessive positive camber can lead to wear on the outer edge of the tire. Maintaining the correct camber angle ensures even tire wear and better handling. Caster: The Steering Angle Caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. It refers to the tilt of the steering pivot and is crucial for steering stability. The caster angle affects the vehicle’s ability to return the steering wheel to a straight position after a turn. Positive Caster : This is the most common setting in modern vehicles, where the steering axis tilts rearward. Positive caster provides better stability at higher speeds and helps the vehicle maintain straight-line driving. Negative Caster : This is rare and typically found in older vehicles. Negative caster can result in poor steering stability and reduced control. Proper caster alignment improves steering feel, vehicle stability, and control, especially at high speeds. Toe: The Direction the Tires Point Toe refers to the direction the tires point relative to the centerline of the vehicle when viewed from above. It’s essentially how much the front of the tires turns inward (toe-in) or outward (toe-out). Improper toe alignment can lead to rapid tire wear and poor handling. Toe-In : When the front of the tires point inward toward the centerline of the vehicle, it’s called toe-in. This is commonly used to enhance straight-line stability. Toe-Out : When the front of the tires point outward, it’s called toe-out. This setting is often used in racing for better cornering response. Correct toe alignment ensures even tire wear and proper handling, which improves overall driving comfort and safety. The Wheel Alignment Process Now that we know the key angles involved, let’s take a closer look at the actual wheel alignment process and what you can expect when you bring your car into CS Automotive for service. Step 1: Inspection of Suspension and Steering Components Before any adjustments are made, the technician will inspect your vehicle’s suspension and steering components. This is an essential part of the process, as worn-out parts such as ball joints, tie rods, and control arms can affect alignment and make it impossible to achieve proper wheel alignment. If any of these parts are found to be damaged or worn, they will need to be replaced before proceeding with the alignment. Step 2: Adjusting the Alignment Angles Once the suspension and steering components are in good condition, the technician will use specialized equipment to measure and adjust the camber, caster, and toe angles. Most alignment shops, including CS Automotive , use computerized wheel alignment machines that provide precise measurements and adjustments to ensure your wheels are aligned to factory specifications. Step 3: Test Drive and Final Checks After the alignment is complete, the technician will take your car for a test drive to ensure the adjustments have been properly made. This test drive helps confirm that your car drives straight and handles well. Once the test drive is complete, the technician will recheck the alignment angles to verify that everything is in the optimal range. Proper alignment ensures your tires wear evenly, your steering is responsive, and your vehicle handles smoothly. It's a crucial part of vehicle maintenance that helps extend the life of your tires and improve overall driving safety.  Why Wheel Alignment Matters Getting regular wheel alignments is important for a variety of reasons, including: 1. Improved Tire Longevity When your wheels are misaligned, your tires can wear unevenly, causing you to replace them much sooner than expected. Regular alignment helps prevent premature tire wear, saving you money in the long run by extending the lifespan of your tires. 2. Better Fuel Efficiency Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle to drag or pull to one side, which means your engine has to work harder to maintain speed. This increased resistance can reduce fuel efficiency. Proper alignment reduces drag and helps your car run more efficiently, saving you money at the gas pump. 3. Enhanced Vehicle Handling Proper wheel alignment ensures that your vehicle handles predictably and safely. When your wheels are aligned correctly, you’ll experience smoother driving, improved steering response, and better overall control, especially when cornering or driving at high speeds. 4. Reduced Strain on Steering and Suspension Components When the wheels are misaligned, it can put unnecessary strain on the steering and suspension components, leading to premature wear and costly repairs. Regular wheel alignment helps keep these parts in good condition, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe and functional for years to come. If your car is pulling to one side, you’re experiencing uneven tire wear, or your steering feels off, it's time for a wheel alignment. At CS Automotive , our experienced technicians are here to ensure that your vehicle is driving at its best. Schedule your appointment today, and let us keep your ride smooth and safe. Whether it’s time for a routine alignment or you're dealing with an alignment issue, we’ve got you covered!

At CS Automotive , we know that your vehicle's tires are one of the most important components for safety, performance, and comfort on the road. That’s why we are proud to offer a wide range of high-quality tires for every type of vehicle, from sedans and SUVs to trucks and performance cars. Whether you need a new set of tires to replace worn-out ones or you’re simply looking to upgrade, CS Automotive has you covered with great tire sales and services. Why Choose CS Automotive for Your Tires? When it comes to tire sales, CS Automotive stands out for our commitment to quality, service, and affordability. Our team of expert technicians can help you choose the right tires for your driving needs, budget, and vehicle specifications. We carry a large inventory of tires from trusted brands, ensuring that you get the best performance, durability, and value. We understand that buying new tires can feel like a big investment, but with our tire sales, you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the best prices in the Brentwood area. Our tire experts will guide you through the selection process, taking into account factors such as: Vehicle type : Different vehicles require different tire specifications. Whether you drive a compact car, a heavy-duty truck, or a performance sports car, we have the perfect tires for your ride. Driving conditions : Do you primarily drive on highways, off-road, or in extreme weather conditions? We can recommend tires that match your driving habits and the local climate. Tire lifespan and warranty : We offer a variety of tire brands and models that come with warranties to ensure that your investment is protected for years to come. Wide Selection of Tires for Every Need At CS Automotive , we carry tires from some of the industry’s leading manufacturers, including Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, and many more. Whether you're looking for all-season tires, winter tires, or performance tires, we have options that meet your needs: All-Season Tires : Ideal for everyday driving, all-season tires provide a balance of performance in both wet and dry conditions. They are the most popular choice for many drivers, offering reliability and comfort throughout the year. Winter Tires : If you live in an area with harsh winters, winter tires are a must. These tires are specifically designed to perform well in cold temperatures and provide better traction on snow and ice. Performance Tires : If you’re a driving enthusiast or own a high-performance vehicle, we offer a selection of performance tires that provide exceptional handling, cornering, and braking ability. Professional Tire Installation and Services In addition to tire sales, CS Automotive also offers professional tire installation services to ensure your new tires are mounted and balanced correctly. Proper installation is crucial for tire performance, safety, and longevity. Our team of experienced technicians will make sure that your tires are installed to the highest standards. We also offer a range of tire-related services to keep your vehicle in top shape, including: Tire Balancing : Ensures that your tires wear evenly and your ride remains smooth. Tire Rotation : Regular tire rotations help extend the life of your tires by ensuring even wear. Tire Pressure Checks : Proper tire inflation is essential for safety, performance, and fuel efficiency.  Schedule Your Tire Service Today Ready to upgrade your tires? Visit CS Automotive in Brentwood or Monteagle, where we’re always happy to help you find the right set of tires for your vehicle and your budget. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to provide expert advice, competitive pricing, and the professional service you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your tire purchase and installation. At CS Automotive , we’re here to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly for years to come!

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, few services are as essential as oil changes. Whether you’re driving an older model or a brand-new car, your engine relies on clean oil to operate smoothly and efficiently. But when it’s time to change your oil, you may face a decision: should you opt for regular oil or synthetic oil? At CS Automotive , we understand that choosing the right oil for your vehicle can be confusing. What Is the Difference Between Regular and Synthetic Oil? At the core of this debate, the main difference between regular (conventional) oil and synthetic oil lies in their composition. Regular oil is derived directly from crude oil, while synthetic oil is artificially manufactured using chemically modified compounds. While both oils serve the same basic purpose of lubricating the engine and preventing wear and tear, they have distinct properties that make each one better suited to specific needs. Regular Oil: Traditional and Affordable Regular oil, also called conventional oil, is the most common type of oil used in cars. It’s a natural product, refined from crude oil and then blended with additives to improve its performance. Conventional oil is widely used in many vehicles, especially older models or cars with simpler engines. Benefits of Regular Oil: Cost-Effective : Regular oil is more affordable than synthetic oil, making it a good option for those on a budget or those who drive less frequently. Adequate for Older Engines : For older vehicles or those with high mileage, regular oil is often perfectly suitable. These engines don’t typically require the advanced properties of synthetic oil. Readily Available : Conventional oil is easy to find and widely used, so it’s often a more convenient option for routine oil changes. Drawbacks of Regular Oil: Requires More Frequent Changes : Regular oil tends to break down faster than synthetic oil. Depending on your vehicle and driving conditions, you might need to change it more frequently (every 3,000 to 5,000 miles). Lower Performance at Extreme Temperatures : Conventional oil is more likely to thicken in cold weather or break down at higher temperatures, potentially putting your engine at risk in extreme conditions. Synthetic Oil: Engineered for Performance Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant created by chemically altering petroleum compounds to improve performance. It’s designed to offer superior protection and efficiency compared to conventional oil, especially in modern engines or high-performance vehicles. Benefits of Synthetic Oil: Better Engine Protection : Synthetic oils are engineered to provide superior protection against wear and tear. They offer more consistent viscosity, which helps the oil maintain its lubricating properties at both high and low temperatures. Extended Oil Change Intervals : Synthetic oils are more durable, meaning they don’t need to be changed as often as regular oil. Many synthetic oils can last between 7,500 to 15,000 miles, depending on the brand and your driving conditions. Improved Performance in Extreme Conditions : Synthetic oil performs better in extreme temperatures, whether it’s freezing cold or sweltering heat. This makes it a great choice for those living in areas with harsh climates or those who regularly drive under heavy loads. Cleaner Engine : Synthetic oils contain fewer impurities and contaminants, helping to reduce engine sludge and keep your engine clean. Drawbacks of Synthetic Oil: Higher Cost : Synthetic oils are more expensive than conventional oils, and the initial investment for an oil change may be higher. However, considering their longer lifespan, this cost difference can be outweighed by fewer oil changes over time. Potential for Overkill : For vehicles with low mileage and basic engine designs, synthetic oil might not be necessary. If you drive an older vehicle under normal driving conditions, conventional oil could be sufficient. Which Oil Change Is Right for You? So, how do you know which type of oil change is best for your vehicle? There are a few key factors to consider. Consider Your Vehicle’s Age and Condition If you have an older car with a simple engine, conventional oil may still be the best choice. Older vehicles don’t always require the advanced performance features offered by synthetic oils. In contrast, modern engines, particularly those in high-performance vehicles, benefit from synthetic oils’ enhanced properties. For newer vehicles, especially those with turbocharged or high-performance engines, synthetic oil is often the recommended choice to keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently over the long term. Your Driving Habits Matter If you primarily drive short distances in the city, or if you frequently engage in stop-and-go driving, synthetic oil might be the better choice for your car. These driving conditions can lead to increased engine wear, which synthetic oil is designed to reduce. On the other hand, if you mostly drive long distances on highways or in mild conditions, conventional oil may be sufficient. Additionally, if you do a lot of towing or drive in harsh climates, synthetic oil provides superior protection against heat and wear, making it the better choice for those extreme driving conditions. Oil Change Frequency Another consideration is how often you want to change your oil. While both conventional and synthetic oils need to be changed regularly, synthetic oil lasts much longer. This means fewer trips to the mechanic and less hassle in the long run. However, if you don’t mind more frequent oil changes and want to keep your initial costs down, conventional oil may still be a good option.  Why Choose CS Automotive for Your Oil Change? At CS Automotive , we understand that maintaining your car’s engine requires more than just an oil change—it requires the right oil for the job. Our experienced team can help you choose the best oil for your vehicle, whether it’s regular or synthetic. We take pride in offering honest, reliable service, and we’re committed to keeping your car running smoothly. We offer oil changes for both conventional and synthetic oils, as well as a variety of other maintenance services to ensure your vehicle operates at its best. Whether you need a quick oil change or more extensive engine repairs, we’re here to help! Expert Advice You Can Trust When it’s time for your next oil change, you don’t have to navigate the decision alone. Our skilled technicians at CS Automotive are always available to answer your questions and provide professional recommendations. We’ll work with you to make sure your vehicle gets the best care, whether that means opting for regular oil or upgrading to synthetic oil for maximum performance. If you're due for an oil change, don't hesitate to reach out to CS Automotive today! Whether you're looking for a conventional or synthetic oil change, our team is ready to ensure your vehicle is in top shape. Give us a call to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services. Your engine deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it!

Why Is My Hybrid Struggling to Start? Hybrid vehicles are growing in popularity. That’s because they are fuel-efficient, fun to drive, and affordable to maintain. However, hybrid cars are not without their fair share of unique problems. One of the top issues hybrid car owners face is their cars struggling to start. Is it a dead or dying battery? Is there something wrong with the engine? What could the problem possibly be? Luckily, the ASE-certified hybrid repair mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, are here to help. Since 2006, drivers across Williamson County have trusted their Prius and other hybrid vehicles to our woman-owned shop. Keep reading to learn the top five reasons behind hybrid vehicle starting issues. 5 Reasons Your Hybrid Won’t Start There are many culprits behind hybrid starting problems. While the main reason is a dead battery, there are many other issues hybrid drivers should be aware of. Among the top reasons your hybrid vehicle struggles to start include: Overfilled Oil: Did you top off your oil? If so, you could have added too much. Hybrid cars use less oil than their combustion-engine counterparts. Ignition Issues: A worn-out ignition could be causing your hybrid’s starting problems. Faulty spark plugs are a top cause. Fuel System Problems: Fuel system troubles are another common reason for hybrid cars not starting. While your Prius relies on electricity to run, it still needs gas. Call CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, today for a new fuel filter. Bad Key Fob: If your key fob is wonky, your hybrid vehicle may not be able to start. A bad passive transponder could be the issue. Blown Fuse: While a blown fuse is rare, it may be causing your Prius’ starting issues. Have a mechanic check the fuse box to see if this is the problem.  Brentwood’s Hybrid Repair Experts Since 2006, the ASE-certified hybrid repair mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, have been delivering high-quality automotive repair solutions to motorists across the region. We will inspect your Prius, diagnose the cause of its starting problems, and make the necessary repairs as quickly as possible. We stand behind our work with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty and always offer affordable rates. Call us today at (931) 208-6428 to book your hybrid repair appointment. Contact CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, for all your auto repairs and maintenance needs. We hope to see you soon.

What Is Wheel Balancing? Gymnasts aren’t the only ones to have great balancing skills. You need to balance your wheels to optimize your vehicle’s performance and power. Tire balancing is a preventative maintenance service that corrects the uneven distribution of wheel weight. During this service, the ASE-certified technicians at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, will mount your car’s wheels and tires onto a wheel balancing machine. This equipment spins the tire and wheel assemblies to reveal any imbalances. This way, our mechanics can accurately install the proper tire weights to balance out your wheels. This service differs from a wheel alignment in that an alignment includes adjustments made to your vehicle’s suspension system. You should have your tires balanced every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. If your car is overdue for a wheel balance, contact our auto repair shop today at (931) 208-6428 to book an appointment. Benefits Of Balancing Your Tires There are many benefits of following a proper wheel balancing schedule. For starters, balancing your wheels significantly improves fuel efficiency. Tire balancing also results in a smoother, more comfortable ride. It also extends the life of your tires, reduces strain on the drivetrain, and improves your vehicle’s steering, handling, and safety. Lastly, wheel balancing helps prevent potential issues from happening down the road, saving you time and money. Your car will experience several issues if it needs its tires balanced. These include uneven tire wear and tear, vibrating at the back or front wheels, a shaking steering wheel or seat, or if your car is pulling to one side as you drive. If you notice any of these issues, contact the ASE-certified mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, today. We’ll balance your tires and get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Book An Appointment Today! If your wheels need to be balanced, contact CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee. For almost two decades, our experienced mechanics have provided top-notch automotive repair and preventative maintenance services to drivers across the region. We stand behind our work with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty and offer honest rates. We will take a look at your ride, balance the tires, and send you on your way. We also offer suspension repair, car A/C repair, hybrid repair, check engine light diagnostics, wheel alignment, and engine repair services. Visit us to learn about our wide range of services.

CEL Diagnosis Explained Your stomach might drop when that pesky little genie lamp-looking light pops up on your dashboard. Your car’s check engine light, or CEL, can turn on for a variety of reasons. While the issue could be something as simple as a loose gas cap, your mind quickly goes to worst-case scenarios. Luckily, the ASE-certified mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, are here to help. For almost 20 years, our car care experts have provided advanced check engine light diagnostics to drivers across Williamson County. We will use our advanced equipment to communicate with your car’s internal computers during this service. This allows us to retrieve codes that reflect particular issues, including faulty spark plugs or a bad catalytic converter. This trouble code holds the keys to getting to the bottom of your flashing CEL and figuring out what is wrong with your car. If your CEL is flickering or steadily illuminated, call us today at (931) 208-6428 . Why Is My CEL On? Many different problems can trigger your check engine light to come on. Some of the most common issues that cause your CEL to pop on include a loose or missing gas cap, worn-out wires or spark plugs, fuel quality issues, a worn-out catalytic converter, failing electronic control modules, or bad oxygen sensors. To get to the root cause of your illuminated check engine light, you need to schedule a check engine light diagnostics service appointment at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee. Our ASE-certified mechanics use state-of-the-art equipment to quickly and accurately diagnose the issue. We will then clearly explain what repairs need to be done and get to work immediately. You can rest assured that you’ll always receive high-quality auto repair services at our shop. We stand behind our work with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty. Get Your Check Engine Light Checked Out If your car’s check engine light is on, don’t ignore it. This could lead to costly—and even dangerous—issues. Instead, call the ASE-certified mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, to book a check engine light diagnostic appointment. Since 2006, local drivers have trusted us for dependable and affordable automotive repair and maintenance services. Call us at (931) 208-6428 now to book your appointment. We will get to the bottom of your flashing check engine light and repair your ride. Visit our shop for your CEL service. 

Do You Need Brake Repair? Your car’s braking system is one of its most vital safety components. If your brakes are worn out or broken, it will significantly reduce your vehicle’s stopping power, increasing your risk of an automotive accident. To stay safe, you need to have your brakes routinely serviced and be able to identify the signs of braking issues. One of the top braking issues motorists can face is worn-out brake pads. While you should replace your brake pads every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, premature wear and tear will require you to replace them sooner. If you notice the following warning signs, contact the ASE-certified brake repair mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, to have your brakes fixed. 5 Warning Signs of Excessive Brake Wear Have you noticed squeaking and squealing coming from your brakes? Is your car wobbling or vibrating? See any fluid leaks? If so, you should schedule a brake repair appointment as soon as possible. Here are five warning signs of excessive brake wear to keep an eye out for: High-Pitched Squealing: If you start to hear shrill squealing, screeching, or squeaking when you use your brake pedal, it may be a red flag that your brake pads are wearing out. Vibrating: Another sign that your car’s brakes are excessively worn out is if your car vibrates when you brake. A well-operating braking system will make your car roll to a smooth stop. Reduced Stopping Power: Brakes are designed to make your vehicle stop quickly. If your car has reduced stopping power, schedule a brake repair appointment at CS Automotive as soon as possible. Spongy Brake Pedal: Does your brake pedal feel soft or spongy when you apply pressure to it? This is a telltale sign that your car needs brake repair services. Leaks: If fluids leak from your car, you should book an auto repair appointment.  Schedule Your Brake Repair Service Appointment Today For almost 20 years, the ASE-certified mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, have provided best-in-class brake repair services to the motorists of Williamson County. We have affordable rates and stand behind our work with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty. If your car’s braking system is worn out, call us today at (931) 208-6428 to schedule an appointment. Call or email CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, for all your auto repairs and maintenance. Your brakes are in good hands.

Car A/C Maintenance 101 Are you planning a summer road trip? Want to stay cool and comfy during your commute to work? If so, you must properly maintain your car’s air conditioning system. Nobody wants to be stuck driving around in a hot vehicle. It’s uncomfortable and can even be dangerous. To keep your car’s A/C system in great shape, you need to stick to a regular preventative maintenance schedule. But how often do you need to get your auto air conditioning system services? Thankfully, the ASE-certified car A/C repair technicians at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, are here to tell you everything you need to know. Typically, you should be servicing your car’s A/C system once every year. However, you may need to do it sooner rather than later. Why Is My A/C Not Blowing Cold Air? If your vehicle’s air conditioning has stopped working, you should get it serviced. Springs and summers in Tennessee can get super hot. In order to beat the heat, your auto A/C needs to work efficiently. If your car’s A/C has stopped blowing cold air, isn’t blowing air at all, is leaking, or smells moldy, book a car A/C repair appointment with the ASE-certified mechanics at CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, as soon as possible. A few reasons your vehicle’s air conditioning may not work include low refrigerant due to leaks, electrical issues, a broken or blocked condenser, broken cooling fans, mold growth, blocked air intake, damaged hoses or belts, and a failed clutch switch. Our car care experts will take a look at your air conditioning system, accurately diagnose the issue, and quickly get to work making the necessary repairs. Our Mechanics Will Help You Beat the Heat At CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, we help Williamson County motorists beat the heat. Since 2006, we have provided quality automotive repair solutions at reasonable rates. Our ASE-certified mechanics stand behind their work with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. An efficiently working air conditioning system can improve fuel efficiency, help protect the environment, and boost your driving comfort. If your car’s A/C isn’t working, call our auto repair shop today at (931) 208-6428 . We are open Monday through Friday and located at 610 Church St E, Brentwood, TN 37027 . We are excited to hear from you! Visit CS Automotive in Brentwood, Tennessee, for all your auto repairs and maintenance needs. We look forward to helping you.